"The IPCC report has shown that the world needs to take urgent action to combat climate change, and the most obvious need is to replace the dirtiest forms of fossil fuels as quickly as possible. Previous IPCC reports have argued that shale gas is not incompatible with combating climate change and countries around the world have shown that a proper balance of nuclear, renewables and gas can reduce emissions, reduce prices and increase economic growth. In terms of the UK, it is also important not to lose sight of the fact that gas plays equally an important role heating homes and providing feedstock for industry. The onshore oil and gas industry has a commitment and duty to do everything it can to extract gas with the minimum of emissions and environmental impacts.

"The current debate is polarised and does not need to be - we need to start working together if we are to act upon the real and present dangers highlighted by the IPCC"